least supported

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least supported" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has the lowest level of backing or endorsement compared to other options. Example: "Among the proposed solutions, the one with the least supported evidence was ultimately rejected."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

Fàbregas's denials were convincing, or at least supported by others who also claim to know the people who know.

The Guardian - Sport

In Eastern music, the rhythmically measured portions following the virtuoso singer's florid "outpouring of the soul" are nearly always played or at least supported by instruments.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The outcome, at the very least, supported a poll conducted just prior to election day in which Americans said they did not rank gun control as a top issue.

The Guardian

At the scene of an evacuation, they usually used the phrase "hostile civilians," which hinted that all the villagers at least supported the enemy and thus all deserved to be "relocated".

The New Yorker

Though she has at least supported a pathway to citizenship since 2006, Clinton herself has wavered in her support for other issues important to Latino and immigration reform advocates.

The Guardian

Some traditionalists voiced disgust with the proposal or at least supported the current system, which awards the N.C.A.A. automatic bid to the winner of a 14-game round-robin.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

This bracingly self-critical collection, at least, supports his boast.

The New York Times - Books

All I had to do was become a Republican, or at least support him as the majority leader.

The New York Times

The report, compiled by the Iranian Center for Strategic Studies, a research arm of the Presidency, signalled that Rouhani at least supports more public debate.

The New Yorker

The Japanese's are at least supporting their own economy with these purchases.

TechCrunch

Many Ukrainians suspect Russia is at least supporting and encouraging the protests, if not directing them.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "least supported", ensure that you clearly identify what is being compared. Provide context to explain why something is considered "least supported".

Common error

Avoid using "least supported" without specifying the basis for comparison. Instead of saying 'This idea is least supported', clarify with 'This idea is the "least supported" by empirical evidence'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least supported" functions as an adjective modifying a noun, indicating that the noun has the minimum level of endorsement, evidence, or backing compared to others. This aligns with examples provided by Ludwig, where it describes theories, policies, or data.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

7.5%

Less common in

Wiki

2.5%

Formal & Business

2.5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "least supported" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to indicate a lack of backing or evidence compared to other options. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it appears commonly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, reflecting a neutral to formal register. To enhance clarity, it's essential to specify the basis of comparison when using this phrase. Alternatives such as "minimally backed" or "poorly substantiated" may be employed to vary expression while maintaining similar meaning. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is appropriate for use in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minimally backed

Focuses on the level of backing received.

weakest evidence

Highlights the quality of evidence provided.

scarcely endorsed

Emphasizes the endorsement aspect.

poorly substantiated

Indicates a lack of factual support.

nominally upheld

Highlights minimal upholding or maintenance.

tenuously advocated

Focuses on advocacy with weak backing.

marginally validated

Emphasizes minimal validation of the subject.

hardly sustained

Indicates a difficulty in maintaining support.

unconvincingly argued

Focuses on the lack of persuasive argumentation.

inadequately justified

Highlights a deficiency in proper justification.

FAQs

How can I use "least supported" in a sentence?

You can use "least supported" to describe an idea, theory, or claim that has the weakest evidence or backing compared to others. For example, "Among the proposed solutions, the one with the "least supported" evidence was ultimately rejected."

What are some alternatives to saying "least supported"?

Alternatives include "minimally backed", "weakest evidence", or "poorly substantiated" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "less supported" instead of "least supported"?

While "less supported" is grammatically correct, it implies a comparison between two items. "Least supported" is more appropriate when comparing three or more items or options.

What's the difference between "least supported" and "unsupported"?

"Least supported" implies that there is some degree of support, but it is minimal compared to other options. "Unsupported" means there is no evidence or backing at all.